May 2008
Sports
Main Events
College sports
Bicycling
Runs and Walks
Golf
Motor Sports
Horse Sports
Leagues and Classes
Motor sports
Misc.
Menu of this month's listings, stories and columns
Main events
Dinner with the Miners -- The 34th annual Dinner with the Miners is Thursday, May 1, at the Wyndham El Paso Airport, 2027 Airway Blvd. Reception begins at 6 p.m. and dinner and program start at 6:45 p.m. The program will feature UTEP coaches and outstanding athletes. Corporate tables are $500, and seat ten persons -- six for the sponsor and four for the athletes. Individual seats are $75. Information: George Arvizu, 204-0330.
The event is sponsored by the El Paso Downtown Lions Club. Proceeds help provide scholarships for student athletes.
El Paso Golf Classic -- The annual Duramed FUTURES Tour tournament, part of the official developmental tour of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), is May 2-4, 3200 Coe, Fort Bliss (Underwood Golf Complex, Sunrise Course). This year’s tour features players from throughout the United States and around the world. Tee-off time is 8 a.m. all three days. Spectator passes available at the gate. Call for cost: 562-7255.
Pro-Am event is Thursday, May 1.
Johnny Tapia boxing -- The champion boxer will seek his Seventh World Title at 8 p.m. Friday, May 2, at El Paso County Coliseum, 4100 Paisano. Tickets: $13.25, $32.70, $52.05 and $90.95 (Ticketmaster).
El Paso Patriots Soccer -- The professional soccer team’s 2008 season home games begin at 7:30 p.m. at Patriot Stadium, 6941 Industrial. Tickets: $7 ($5 children). Season tickets: $60 (for 10 games). Available at the Patriots office, 6941 Industrial, EEC Fashions. at 501 S. Stanton, or at the gate. Information/group tickets: 771-6620 or elpaso-patriots.com.
Upcoming games:
-- Saturday, May 3 -- Austin Aztex
-- Friday and Saturday, May 16-17 -- Houston Leones
El Paso Scorpions Rugby -- The El Paso rugby team’s homes games are played at Thom Park (between Doniphan and I-10). Information: 740-8340 or jackattak44@yahoo.com.
-- May 3 -- 7’s Camp
-- May 10 -- 7’s Trials.
Tejanos baseball -- The Tejanos of El Paso Community College’s final home games of the season begin at noon, Saturday, May 3, against New Mexico Military at the Valle Verde Campus Baseball Field. Admission: $3. Information: 831-2275.
A Cinco de Mayo exhibition game against El Paso Diablos is 7 p.m. Monday, May 5, at Cohen Stadium.
NMSU Men’s Baseball -- The Aggies’ home games are at Presley Askew Complex, Locust and Stewart, Las Cruces. Information: (575) 646-4126 or nmstatesports.com.
-- May 8-10 -- Hawai’i 6:05 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 1:05 p.m. Saturday (doubleheader).
-- May 16-18 -- Louisiana Tech 3:05 p.m. Friday (doubleheader), 6:05 p.m. Saturday and 1:05 p.m. Sunday.
Amigos de Dressage Horse Shows I and II -- The Paso del Norte Dressage Society will host its annual shows Saturday and Sunday, May 10-11, at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino in Sunland Park, N.M. (Go to far side of track). For the 13th year, proceeds benefit Hospice El Paso. Spectator admission is free.
El Paso Brawlers -- The nonprofit Minor League Football team’s final home game of the season is at 6 p.m. Saturday, May 10, against San Angelo Cavalry in Sun Bowl Stadium at UTEP’s Sun Bowl Stadium. The Brawlers are part of the New Mexico Football League. Admission: $7.50 ($5 children 5 and older). Information: 587-5572 or brawlersfootball.com.
The team is part of the AAA Southwest Football Conference and Minor League Football Alliance, consisting of 12 regional teams.
Ruidoso Downs Horse Racing -- The 2008 season runs May 23-Sept. 1, ending with the 50th Anniversary running of the $2 million All American Futurity on Labor Day.
Live racing is Thursday through Sunday, except on holiday weekends when the horses run Friday through Monday. First post is 1 p.m. through Aug. 24, and noon Aug. 29-Sept. 1.
General admission and parking are free; reserved seating ranges from $5-$7; Turf Club admission is $10; valet parking is $5. Information: (575) 378-4431 or (575) 378-4140 or ruidosodownsracing.com.
From 160 to 180 horses compete in the All American Futurity trials, with the 10 fastest advancing to race for a $2 million purse.
Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino -- Futurity Drive in Sunland Park, off Sunland Park Drive west of I-10. The live racing season ended April 22. Simulcast racing and casino gaming offered every day. Information: (575) 874-5200.
Kentucky Derby Day is Saturday, May 3, for the 134th Run for the Roses. Turf Club packages available for $30 (includes buffet, collector’s glass and simulcast of the race.
A Kentucky Derby Preview event is 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 2, with free appetizers, a D.J. competition and expert analysis of this year’s Kentucky Derby contenders.
El Paso Diablos Baseball -- The American Association minor league team opens its 2008 season May 8-11 vs. the Shreveport Sports at Cohen Stadium in Northeast El Paso. Game time is 7:05 p.m. (Sunday games begin at 5:05 p.m.). Tickets: $5 general admission, $6 reserved, $7 box seats. Information: 755-2000 or diablos.com.
Exhibition games against the EPCC Tejanos are 7 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, May 5-6, at Cohen Stadium.
Other games.
-- May 27-29 -- St. Paul Saints. Military Appreciation Night is Wednesday, May 28. Diablos will wear special camouflage jerseys to be auctioned after the game. Free admission for active duty military with I.D.
-- May 30-June 1 -- Pensacola Pelicans
Special appearance by SpongeBob Squarepants and Patrick Saturday, May 31.
This year’s promotions include Two-for-one tickets Tuesday, Thirsty Thursdays, Friday Night Fireworks, Super Saturdays, Quarter Mania Sundays.
To get there: take the Patriot Freeway to the Diana exit. From Loop 375, turn south on Kenworthy.
Memorial Day Hang-Gliding Fly-In -- The 28th annual fly-in is Saturday through Monday, May 24-26, at Griggs Sports Complex/Dry Canyon, Alamogordo. Several hang-gliding pilots will ride the thermals above Alamogordo at the Rio Grande Soaring Association’s spring fly-in. To watch them, head for the landing zone at the Griggs Sports Complex (Florida Ave. and Fairgrounds Road). The Alamogordo Space Center also provides a breathtaking view of the action during the 3-day event.
The hang-gliders launch from a point in the Lincoln National Forest known as Dead Horse Ridge or Dry Canyon. Spectators can watch from the launch point if they have four-wheel-drive vehicles. Best time to watch is from noon to 5 p.m., when the hot air rising from the ground provides maximum lift.
An awards banquet is Sunday for participants. Entry fee for flyers: $35 (includes t-shirt). Information: (575) 585-4614 or flywithrgsa.org.
College sports
Bicycling
Tour of the Gila Bike Races -- The 22nd annual stage bicycle races are April 30-May 4, in Silver City, N.M. More than 500 athletes compete in professional and amateur bicycle races. Registration fees: $100-$140, depending on category. Information: Jack Brennan, (505) 388-3222. On-line registration at tourofthegila.com.
Tour of the Gila attracts more than 500 people to Silver City and includes divisions for all skill levels, as well as activities for all ages and abilities. The top men’s and women’s divisions will race for five consecutive days, covering hundreds of miles.
El Paso Bicycle Club – Club events are open to the public; helmets required. Unless listed otherwise, rides begin at River Run Plaza on Country Club Road. (Mesa becomes Country Club; go west past the Rio Grande; River Run is on the right.) Web: elpasobicycleclub.com.
Leaderless evening rides are Wednesdays. Riders decide pace and distance, usually 19-25 miles. Rides begin 5:45 to 6 p.m.
A special Ride of Silence is 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 21. Join cyclists worldwide in a silent, slow-paced 8-mile ride in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways. Information: rideofsilence.org.
Beginner/Intermediate Group (BIG) Training Rides are 6 p.m. Tuesdays, beginning May 6, at the Upper Valley Road and Artcraft strip mall. Each week will focus on something important to becoming a good rider, like shifting, what to carry on one’s bike, riding in traffic, changing a flat, etc. Information: Margaret O’Kelley, 588-3825, or Wyona Turner, 204-4835.
-- Saturday, May 3 -- 8 a.m. Beginner Ride along the Rio Grande River Trail, Easy pace, 12-22 miles. George Luttrell, 433-2019.
-- Saturday, May 3 -- 8 a.m. Ride featuring stops at the historical Courchesne Bridge, American Dam, International Dam, Canal Street Water Treatment Plant and NW wastewater treatment plant. Moderate pace, 25 miles (with option for 100 miles). Chuck Turner, 585-0251.
-- Sunday, May 4 -- 8 a.m. Border Dash up Artcraft to the border crossing and back. Moderate pace, 25 miles. Danny Cavasos, 422-0172.
-- Saturday, May 10 -- 8 a.m. Ride to Canutillo then to Artcraft. Stop at National Weather Service to learn how to use the NWS website for wind and thunderstorm forecasts. Swing by the airport, border crossing and return. Moderate pace, 30 miles. Randy Limbird, 542-1422.
-- Saturday, May 10 -- 8:30 a.m. Beginner Ride. Leave from the Artcraft and Upper Valley mall and ride along the River Trail. Easy pace, 10-15 miles. Shelley Weaver and Ron Futrell, 760-5597.
-- May 10-11 -- Fort Davis Overnight Ride. Ride on Saturday will be the 75-mile Fort Davis loop with SAG support. Sunday’s route will be a mostly downhill ride from Fort Davis to Balmorhea State Park with the option for a dip in the natural pool. Reservations/information: Steve Cantrelle, 545-3944.
-- Sunday, May 11 -- 8 a.m. Beginner Ride Meet at the Artcraft and Upper Valley mall to ride bike path along the river. Easy pace, 10-15 miles. Bob Clark, 833-5838.
-- Sunday, May 11 -- 8 a.m. Ride the Rollers. Start at Crazy Cat Cyclery on Redd Road and take the rollers (frontage road for I-10) to Anthony. Option to go up to the Gap. Moderate pace, 24-40 miles. Refreshments and a beginner’s bicycle repair class will be hosted afterwards by Crazy Cat. Roy Van Tine, 261-9959. BIG Training riders are encouraged to do this ride: Margaret O’Kelley, 588-3825.
-- Friday and Saturday, May 16-17 -- 7:30 p.m. Moonlight Rides. Leaderless rides meet at the Upper Valley and Artcraft mall and ride to the north end of the river bike path.
-- Saturday, May 17 -- 7:30 a.m. Meet at 4844 Portsmouth Blvd. for this 40 mile ride to Transmountain and Resler, with a side trip on Artcraft to the border before returning for breakfast at club president’s home. Bob Wiggs, 584-9729.
-- Sunday, May 18 -- 7:30 a.m. Leaderless Ride. Riders decide route and distance.
-- Sunday, May 18 -- 9 a.m. Beginner Ride. Leaving from Artcraft and Upper Valley mall for ride on the river bike path. Easy pace, 10+ miles. Fred Eiland. 491-0234.
-- Saturday, May 24 -- 6 a.m. Balloon Ride. Meet at Revolution Cyclery at Resler and Redd Road and ride to Anthony to see hot air balloons. Breakfast at the Bagel Shop afterwards. Moderate pace, 30 miles. For BIG training riders, this will be a 16-mile ride at an easy pace returning on the rollers after the balloon liftoff. Margaret O’Kelley, 588-3825.
-- Saturday, May 24 -- 8 a.m. Beginner Ride. Leave from La Union on Hwy. 28 to ride to Vinton, Bosque Road, and Alvarez to old La Union and back to the La Union Station on Hwy 28 for breakfast. Easy pace, 12-13 miles. Bob Wiggs, 584-9729.
-- Sunday, May 25 -- 8:30 a.m. Fast pace, 50 miles. Mark Balsiger, 727-1645.
-- Saturday, May 31 -- 8 a.m. Ride to Anthony for breakfast at the Rose Garden and back. Moderate pace, 30 miles round trip. Shelley Weaver and Ron Futrell, 760-5597.
Dirty Dozen Cycling Squad -- The bicycling group rides long distances, moderate to fast pace, each Sunday. March rides begin at 7:30 a.m. at River Run Plaza (off Country Club past the Rio Grande), unless listed otherwise. Information: Don Middleton, 584-0267 or Patty Chamales, 584-6545.
-- May 4 -- Mescalero Prep. Leave from Madeline Park in Kern Place. Go over the Gap, to La Mesa. in preparation of Ruta de Mescalero May 17. Return via Transmountain and Hondo Pass, 86 miles.
-- May 11 -- Gap with return options, 45 miles.
-- May 18 -- Mescalero Alternative to Gadsden, La Mesa, Old Mesilla, Picacho Road or more, 25, 50, 70 or 90 miles.
-- May 25 -- Scenic Drive and Anthony Gap, 57 miles.
NMTS Gila Inner Loop Tour -- The New Mexico Touring Society’s 17th annual overnight bicycling tour is Saturday and Sunday, May 10-11, through the Gila inner loop. Ride 40 miles each day with an optional 34 mile trip to the Cliff dwellings. Cost: $60 ($55 NMTX members). Tour limited to 50 riders. Information: (505) 299-0302. Registration available on-line at nmts.org.
La Ruta de Mescalero -- The 200K bike event begins at 5 a.m. Saturday, May 17, from the Wal-Mart on Transmountain Road to Inn of the Mountain Gods in Mescalero, N.M. Food and drink, mechanical repairs, medical assistance, and support vehicles available along route. All riders receive long-sleeve t-shirts and jerseys awarded to top three riders in each category. Registration deadline is May 15. Registration: $40. Information: Ricardo Fierro, 726-9521, Rodolfo Fierro, 727-9054 or rutadelmescalero.com. On-line registration at active.com.
The route travels from El Paso to Tularosa with all riders in a pace line maintaining an 18 mph speed. There will be a 15-minute rest at the immigration checkpoint near Orogrande. From Tularosa, riders go at their own pace to Mescalero. A buffet dinner is served at the finish line.
Moonlight Bicycle Ride -- A Moonlight Bicycle Ride is 9 to 11:45 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at White Sands National Monument Dunes Drive. Ride 16 miles through the monument under a full moon after cars have left. Helmet and light required. Cost: $5; $2.50 for children and Golden Age passport holders. Annual passes not honored during the event. No registration accepted via e-mail. Information: (505) 679-2599, ext. 111.
Beginner Mountain Bike ride -- Vinci Bike Shop will host beginner mountain bike rides at 10 a.m. Saturdays. Meet at 9:45 a.m. at Vinci Bike Shop at 3233 N. Mesa. The ride is under six miles in the Kern and Mission Hills area, including a ride through Arroyo Park. Helmets and hydration required. Information: vinci_bike@hotmail.com or 533-4445.
Beginner/intermediate mountain bike rides are also planned every Tuesday evening. Includes Mission Hills and Kern area, Arroyo Park and Monk’s Trail System. Dinner follows at Sunset Pizzeria. Mechanic will be on hand to aid with any bike problems. Call for times.
PAL Roadrunner BMX Track -- The Las Cruces track at 1600 E. Hadley (at Walnut) hosts racing at 6 p.m. every Thursday. Information: (575) 650-3999 or (575) 532-9651.
Desert Downs BMX Track -- BMX racing begins at 1:30 p.m. Saturdays at the track at 5500 Optimist Road at Railroad Drive (next to Nations Tobin Park). BMX racing is now the newest summer Olympic sport. Entry fee: $7 per class. Spectator admission is free. Information: 241-2206 or desertdowns.com.
Runs and Walks
‘Walk Me Home’ run -- National Foster Parent Association’s 5k run/walk benefiting El Paso’s CARE (Child Advocacy and Recruitment Effort) Coalition is 8 a.m. Saturday, May 3, at Memorial Park, 1701 N. Copia. The walk is part of America’s only nationwide walk for foster care. Registration begins at 7 a.m. Information/registration: 781-3330 or walkmehome.org.
To participate in the event, walkers must collect at least $30 in donations. Upon completing the course, each walker will tie a blue ribbon to a tree symbolizing children in foster care to be used during National Foster Care Month in May. Walkers can participate as individuals or on teams.
Braden Aboud Memorial Run -- The 5K and 10 K runs and 5K/1-mile fun run/walk benefiting the Braden Aboud Memorial Foundation begins at 8 a.m. Sunday, May 4, in the Zach White Elementary School parking lot, 4256 Roxbury. T-shirts and refreshments offered for all runners. Trophies, special awards and raffles will be also be offered. Early registration (by May 2): $20 ($10 age 19 and younger). Race day registration: $30 ($20 age 19 and younger). Special “sleep-in” registration is $30.
Online registration (through May 1) at active.com or bradenaboud.com.
Packet pick-up is 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at Up and Running, 3233 N. Mesa (in Rudolph Plaza); and 7 to 7:45 a.m. at the start line on race day. Information: Chris Rowley, 478-5663.
Braden Aboud was a popular and highly admired student at Lincoln Middle School who was killed in a skiing accident. The foundation established in his name seeks to help young people in their athletic activities.
Corazon de Montana Sprint Triathlon -- The 2nd annual 500-yard indoor swim, 10-mile bike ride and 3.3 mile trail run is 7:30 a.m. Saturday, May 10, in Ruidoso, N.M. benefiting Ruidoso High Altitude Aquatics. The event starts at the Ruidoso Athletic Club on Wingfield Street. Body markings begin at 7 a.m. Cost: $50 ($35 18 and under, $75 Relay Team). Information/registration: (575) 257-4900 or ruidosoathleticclub.com.
‘May the Music Live On’ run -- The 4-mile run/1-mile walk celebrating the life of John Denis May, Sr. and benefiting El Paso Summer Music Festival is 8 a.m. Saturday, May 10, on Upper Valley Drive. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m. Post race festivities will include awards for the top finishers. Cost: $17 ($12 students) for either walk or run. Information: 256-8292. Online registration (through May 8) at active.com.
May was a teacher, runner, husband and father who dedicated his life to teaching students throughout El Paso, Sunland Park, Anthony, and Mexico. He also served as a community leader by volunteering as a Boy Scout leader, religious education teacher, and as a member of the Saint Vincent De Paul Society. All proceeds go to the El Paso Summer Music Festival.
WalkAmerica 2008 -- The 38th annual March of Dimes fundraiser is Saturday, May 17. The 6-mile walk around Ascarate Park and Lake raises money for prevention of birth defects. Team pictures and post-walk entertainment are also offered. Information: 590-9499 or marchofdimes.com.
Torch Run -- The NMSU Police Department will sponsor a 5K run and 1-mile fitness walk benefiting Special Olympics at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, May 18, at the police department, corner of Union and College Drive in Las Cruces. Preregistration is encouraged but event day registration is available beginning at 7 a.m. All participants receive a free t-shirt. Cost: $20 for 5K run; $15 for 1 mile walk. Fees increase by $5 after May 14. Information/registration: 646-4533 or nmsupolice.com.
Fort Bayard Wilderness Run -- The 37th annual 8-mile wilderness run and 5K run and walk begins at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 24, beginning and ending at the historic parade grounds of Fort Bayard Medical Center (off U.S. 180 near Silver City). The challenging and scenic course is off-pavement, on trails and roads in the Gila National Forest. Awards offered for winners of each age group. Entry fee is $25 by May 21, $35 on race day. Race day registration begins at 7 a.m. Information: (575)388-2325, zianet.com/ftbayardrun. Online registration at active.com (includes additional processing fee).
Walking for Wellness class -- The City of Las Cruces hosts the 50-minute instructional class with power walking, aerobics, weight resistance and more at 5:30 p.m. Mondays Wednesdays and Fridays at Meerscheidt Recreation Center, 1600 E. Hadley. Bring water and wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing. Showers available. Cost: $1.50 per class. Information: (575) 541-2563.
Families in Crisis Walk/Run -- Lee and Beulah Moor Children’s Home hosts the 6th annual 5K competitive race and 1-mile fun walk 8 a.m. Saturday, May 31, at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the walk/run at 8 a.m. Goody bags and t-shirts for first 300 participants. Registration: $18 in advance ($15 for military, students and teams of 10 or more). Race day registration: $25. Information: Renee Tanner, 544-8777 or leemoor.org. Online registration at active.com.
After-race family events include face painting, live music and mariachi, therapeutic massage, refreshments for participants and appearances by Gus and Goldie and Sparky the Fire Dog.
Proceeds will benefit the Lee and Beulah Moor Children’s Home. Founded in 1959, home provides a wide range of services and programs for families in the El Paso region in need of child support and care.
Packet pick up is 1 to 6 p.m. Friday, May 30, at the Lee and Beulah Moor Children’s Home, 1100 E. Cliff.
MWR Volksmarch -- Fort Bliss MWR will host a non-competitive IVV-sanctioned walking event Saturday, May 31, to inaugurate its recently-installed walking trail in and around the Sheridan/Pershing Road parade fields and the Replica Museum. Participants choose their pace and walk 5 or 10 kilometers on the new path. Starting time is 8 to 11 a.m. in the Officer’s Club parking lot. Food and beverages available for purchase. Event is free unless walking for IVV credit or souvenir medal. Information: 568-2074 or blissmwr.com.
Frances Stevens Triathlon -- The 7K run /35K bike/400M swim begins at 8 a.m. Saturday, June 14, at White Sands Missile Range. Preregistration: $40 individuals; $60 teams (by May 31). No late or race-day registration). Information/registration: (575) 678-3374 or wsmrmwr.com (click on “Bell Gym”).
La Fe 5K -- The 15th annual Father’s Day Community Health 5K Run and 5K Walk begins at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, June 14, La Fe Child and Adolescent Wellness Center, 721 S. Ochoa. The 3.1-mile course goes through the historic Segundo Barrio neighborhood. Information: Jesus Quiñonez, 534-7979.
Running clubs:
-- Run El Paso maintains information on local races at runelpaso.com. Information: Luis Zaragosa, 543-2017.
-- The El Paso Hash House Harriers meet Sunday afternoons for non-competitive runs through the greater El Paso area. Winter runs are usually around 3 p.m. Trails usually range from 2 to 4 miles, with social event afterward. Cost: $4 per run. First run is free; walkers welcome. Information: 857-1687 or elpasohash.com.
-- The Border Jumper Hash House Harriers (H3) meet at 7 p.m. Wednesdays and 6 p.m. Saturdays at various locations around the El Paso area. Dues: $3 per run. First run is free. Information: bjhash.com.
Hash housers must be age 21 or older.
Golf
Ronald McDonald House Golf Tournament -- The Ronald McDonald House of El Paso will host its 16th annual Golf Tournament Monday, May 5, at the El Paso Country Club. Shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. The annual dinner and auction is 6 p.m. Sunday, May 4. Registration: $250 individual; $500 teams (includes green fees, dinner, lunch, auction, and giveaways). Putting contest: $20. Admission for dinner and auction only: $25. Information: 542-1522 or rmhcelp@elp.rr.com. Register on-line at rmhcelpaso.org.
Also planned is the 2nd annual Helicopter Golf Ball Drop for a chance to win a car and cash prizes. Cost: $10 per ball.
Nolan Richardson Charity Golf Tournament -- The tournament is 7 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 24-25, at Fort Bliss Underwood Golf Complex. Registration deadline is May 5. Cost: $250 ($1,000 four person team). Information: 252-9445 or 539-4784.
Leagues and classes
Acosta Sports Center -- 4321 Delta. Information: 534-0254.
-- 2008 Summer Youth Basketball League
8U-14U for both boys and girls begins Saturday, May 17. Registration deadline is May 3. Cost: $250 per team, plus official fees.
-- 2008 Men’s Open Basketball League games are Thursday nights beginning May 15. Registration deadline is May 10. Cost: $200 per team, plus official fees.
Greater El Paso Tennis Association -- Information: 532-5524 or gepta@sbcglobal.net. Advance registration at tournaments.usta.com.
-- The 4th annual Tennis for the Cure Doubles Tournament Championship benefiting Susan G. Komen Foundation is May 1-4 at Tennis West Sports and Racquet Club, Sponsored by Sierra/Providence Health Network.
-- The May Grand Prix is May 14-18 at Picacho Hills Country Club in Las Cruces. Registration deadline is May 11 (ID# 759500808). Information: Cathy Tracy, (575) 523-8641 or tracytennis@frontier.net.
El Paso Youth Tennis Center, 4770 Woodrow Bean Transmountain Road, hosts family nights 4 to 9 p.m. Fridays. Admission is free. Information: 751-1181.
Juniors Events:
-- America’s Junior Open is April 30-May 4 at America’s High School. Information: Robert Tapia, 820-6227 or rtapia02@sisd.net.
-- The USTA National Open level 2 tournament is May 17-21 at El Paso Youth Tennis Center, open to all USTA Junior members, 18 years or under (ID# 759400208). Information: Juan Gomez, 751-1181 or juangomez@epytc.org.
The GEPTA Senioritis League begins Saturday, May 24, at El Paso Youth Tennis Center. A kick-off party is 1 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at El Paso Youth Tennis Center. League Play (for six weeks); $20. Information: GEPTA Office, 532-5524 or Debbie Carlsen, 253-1000 or gepta@sbcglobal.net.
Tennis for the Cure -- Greater El Paso Tennis Association and Sierra Providence Healthcare Network will host the 4th annual fundraising doubles tournament May 1-4 at Tennis West Sports and Racquet Club, 1 Tennis West Lane. The tournament consists of men’s, women’s and combined NTRP mixed doubles. Proceeds benefit the El Paso Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Registration: $28 per player. Deadline is April 27. Register online at tournaments.usta.com (ID#759402508). Information: Jennifer Viramontes, 532-5524 or gepta@sbcglobal.net.
Cinco de Mayo tournaments -- El Paso Sports and Recreation Department sill host its Cinco de Mayo youth baseball and girls fastpitch softball tournaments May 2-4, for ages 8 and older. Call for locations. Baseball fee: $125 per team; softball fee; $175 per team. Additional umpire fees apply. Softball tournament is ASA sanctioned. Schedule/information: 534-0254.
Special Olympics Equestrian events -- Area 19 2008 Spring Games conclude with horsemanship events 9 a.m. Saturday, May 3, at Therapeutic Horsemanship, 651 N. Vinton Rd. Admission is free. Information: 532-1795 or sotx.org.
Co-ed volleyball league -- Registration is being taken for the spring volleyball league. Games begin Tuesday, May 6, at Seville Community Center, 6700 Sambrano. Fee: $100 per team, plus $10 per match referee/scorekeeper fee. Information/registration: 778-6722.
Parks and Rec baseball/softball leagues -- El Paso Parks and Recreation Department is now preparing for its 2008 summer baseball and girls softball leagues. Information: 534-0254 or elpasotexas.gov/parks/sports.asp.
-- Youth summer baseball is open for ages 8-14. Entry fee: $200-$325, depending on age, plus umpire fee. Call for schedule.
-- Girls Fastpitch Softball “Summer Slam” League for ages 8-18 (ASA Sanctioned):
Summer I session is May 12-July 2. Registration deadline is April 25. Fee: $250-$290 per team, depending on age, plus umpire fee.
Summer II session is July 14-Aug. 25. Registration deadline is June 28. Fee: $130-$170, depending on age, plus umpire fee. Additional $120 for those not participating in Summer I session.
Mandatory coaches meeting is 6 p.m. Friday, June 20, at Acosta Sports Center.
Gus Macker Basketball Tournament -- The 7th annual 3-on-3 tournament is Saturday and Sunday, May 17-18, at the Washington Park in Alamogordo. Play runs through 6 p.m. both days. Fees: $116 per four-person team ($6 extra for on-line registration) Information: (575) 437-6120. On-line registration: macker.com.
Started in 1974, Gus Macker “driveway basketball” tournaments are designed for all ages and experience levels. Tournaments include both male and female junior and adult participants.
Tumble Rumble -- Gymnastic Elite, 8340 Burnham, will host multi-discipline tumble competition Saturday, May 17, includes cheerleading, martial arts and gymnastics. Registration: $25 (deadline is April 19). Information/registration packets: 590-9056 or elpasoelite.com.
Little Caesars Sun Bowl International Soccer Tournament -- The 2008 youth soccer tournament for boys and girls is 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 7-8, featuring teams from under-8 to under-19 years of age at various fields throughout El Paso. Nearly 200 teams from California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and Mexico are expected to participate. Each team is guaranteed a minimum of three matches, and all participants receive a free tournament t-shirt. Entry fee for boys and girls teams for ages 8 and under and 10 and under is $250; teams for ages 11 and under through 19 and under is $300. Information: Joe Daubach, 533-4416, 1-800-915-2695 or events@sunbowl.org.
El Paso Boxing Club -- The club meets 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturdays on the Westside for an aerobic workout for men and women using nine different bags. Coach available to answer questions and perfect techniques. Ring work on the mitts available for those interested. Wraps, gloves and all equipment provided by the club. Information/location: Lou Chamales, 526-4248.
Motor sports
Speedway of Southern New Mexico -- The track features modifieds, super stocks, speed stocks and more. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Season racing opens May 3, with races at 7:45 p.m. Saturdays.
The Speedway is 11 miles west of Las Cruces exit 132, off I-10. Take south frontage road to Southern New Mexico Fairgrounds. General admission: $10 ($7 seniors, military, students age 11-15; ages 10 and younger free). Season tickets available. Information: 1-800-658-9650 or snmspeedway.com.
Sertoma Speedway -- The dirt racing track in Tularosa, N.M. (4 miles north of town on U.S. 54). Information: (505) 439-6421, (505) 585-8662 or sertomaspeedway.org.
Motocross Raceday is Sunday, May 11 (practice is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday).
El Paso Speedway Park -- 14851 Marina (off Montana 7 miles east of Loop 375). The 2008 racing season runs April 4-Aug. 29. Races are 7:45 p.m. Fridays, and include wing sprints, super stocks, street stocks, modifieds, super trucks, limited late models, and legends. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
General Admission for modified sprints $10 ($7 seniors/military with ID/students age 11-15 or with UTEP ID). For x-modified shows: $8/$5. Free for children 10 and under. Information: 791-8749 or epspeedwaypark.com.
Season tickets (20 events): $180; $120 seniors/military/students).
El Paso Sand Drag & Speedway -- The new drag strip is opens for racing at 5 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Sundays. The drag strip is located east of El Paso at I-10 (take Clint exit). Information: or southwestdrags.com.
New Mexico’s Florida Mud Bog -- Mud bogs and tuff truck racing events are planned for 6 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at 7060 Rock Hound Road in Deming. Racers must be there at 5 p.m. Admission: $6 ($3 age 7-12; free for ages 6 and younger); $40 for participants. Pit passes: $10. Race entry fee: $40. Information: (575) 537-5771, (575) 741-0055 (on race day) or floridamudbog.com.
Miscellaneous
Aquatic Facilities -- The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation’s Aquatics Division operates nine indoor pools that are open year-round and are fully heated.
General admission is $2, or ten tickets for $15. Pool party rentals available. Information: 541-4594.
Water aerobic classes are $30 per month; $15 per week or $4 a session.
Swim lessons are offered in four-week sessions. New participants must take a pre-test. Open registration starts one week before each session. Call for costs.
Indoor pools:
-- Armijo, 911 Ochoa, 543-9598
-- Delta, 4451 Delta, 542-0087
-- Hawkins, 1500 Hawkins, 594-8031
-- Leo Cancellare, 650 Wallenberg, 584-9848
-- Marty Robbins, 11600 Vista Del Sol, 855-7456
-- Memorial, 3251 Copper, 565-4683
-- Shawver, 8100 Independence, 860-2349
-- T and I, 9031 Viscount, 598-1163
-- Veterans, 5301 Salem, 821-0142
Ascarate Lake Boat Rentals -- Blue Gill Boats and Grill, Ascarate Lake’s concession area, offers kayaks, canoes and pedal boats for rent daily during the summer months. Life jackets are provided, and each boat must be rented by an adult with valid identification. Fee is $5 each half-hour per person age 6 and older ($2 for under 6); group rates available. Open at 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday; closing is at sunset (earlier on weekdays). Information: 778-2160.
El Paso fishing holes -- Several area lakes and water holes are available for fishing. Fishing licenses are $33 per year ($11 per day).
-- Ascarate Park Lake -- 6900 Delta. Lakes regularly stocked by Texas Parks and Wildlife. Fishing license required. Information: 772-5605.
-- Hide-A-Way Lakes -- Located 2.5 miles east of Hwy 20 (take I-10 east to Tornillo exit). Day use, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Overnight camping available. Admission: $7 per vehicle (up to six passengers), plus $7 pole fee. No license required. Information: 764-2555.
-- Licon Dairy -- 11951 Glorieta in San Elizario. Stoked fishing hole. Hours: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. No license required. Pole fee: $8. Information: 851-2705.
-- Plainview Lake -- 5 miles east of Tornillo on Texas Highway 20. No license required. Information: 764-2750.
-- Rainbow Lake -- Anthony, Texas (behind the former Old El Paso cannery). Lake includes bass, bluegill and catfish. Hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Admission: $6, plus $6 pole fee.
Mr. Sand Dunes ATV rentals -- ATV riding and rentals are offered 11 a.m. to dusk throughout the spring and summer, at the entrance to Red Sands, 15698 Montana. Cost: $30/hour. Information: 240-9957 or info@mrsanddunes.com.
Web: mrsanddunes.com.
Skydiving Club -- The skydiving club meets every Saturday and Sunday morning at Santa Teresa Airport. Instruction available for tandem and static line jumps. Information/times: Bob, 241-9663 or (505) 589-4506.
El Paso Scene MONTHLY
This month's listings, stories and columnsFeature story
Roundup
Music
Dance
Here's the Ticket
Program Notes
On Stage
Sports
Southwest Art Scene
At the Museum
History Lessons
Nature
Film Scene
Keep on Bookin'
Becoming Bicultural
Liner Notes
Stage Talk
Gallery Talk
Copyright 2008 by Cristo Rey Communications.